…..As Ondo Youths seek urgent end to insecurity.
By: Oluwatosin Adesola
Worried by recent rising cases of kidnapping, killings and other crimes in Ondo State especially in Ose/Owo/Akoko axis of the state, Residents of the State have called on the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun to immediately redeploy the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Abayomi Oladipo .
The residents who spoke with newsmen in Ifon, Ose local government area, Owo, Ajowa-Akoko and Akure described the high rate of various crimes since Mr Oladapo assumed office in Ondo state in December, 2023 as disturbing considering hitherto low crime rate in the state.
Most prominent among high profile security issues included unknown Gunmen who attacked an 18-seater bus, kidnapping unspecified number of travellers on Ikare- Irun Akoko -Ado Ekiti highway in Ondo state.
The incident was reported to have occured at Oyinmo farm camp Irun Akoko/ Imesi Ekiti axis of the road two months ago.
Also, in May 2024, on Owo-Ifon-Benin road, a bus who carried CAC church choir members was attacked and passengers kidnapped for several days and released after paying huge sum of ransom.
Several reported kidnapping cases including a Pastor with Deeper Life Church in Ogbese were recorded in parts of Akure North and a commercial bus attacked along Ise-Akunnu-Kabba road.
The latest killing and kidnapping which got people talking happened on Friday night.
SUNSHINETRUTH News reports the killing of two travellers and kidnapping of five others by unknown gunmen on Ifon/Owo road on Friday night 19th July, 2024.
It was gathered that the driver of the attacked commercial vehicle and a female passenger were shot dead at the scene of the incident, while five other passengers including a Corps member were whisked away by the suspected kidnappers, but two of them escaped with various degrees of wounds along the Ifon/Owo Expressway in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.
A source in the community hinted that the vehicle was coming from Anambra State with the passengers heading to Owo and Akure at 11:00pm when the gunmen struck.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO in Ondo state, SP Fumilayo Odunlami- Omisanyan, said the command cannot ascertain the exact number of escaped victims; but added that “our men are fully on the ground, combing the forest to ensure that the kidnapped victims are rescued.”
However speaking with newsmen, Mr Julius Alade, a resident of Ifon, lamented that “although the security situation in our area is getting better with Army and Amotekun, until we have new Commissioner of Police (Mr Abayomi Oladipo) whose men have been doing anything to arrest kidnappers who around our forest here.
“We appeal to the IGP and Mr Governor (Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa) to give Ondo State more proactive Police Commissioner that will work harmoniously with other security agencies to stop killings and kidnapping in this area,” Alade said.
Also speaking, Chief Sunday Okiki from Owo and Mr Emmanuel Kumuyi in Ogbese, Akure North, who commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for the recent purchase of brand new operational vehicles for security agencies, suggested that it would be difficult for other security agencies to make impact without having a Commissioner of Police that would work harmoniously with the Army, DSS and Amotekun Corps.
Okiki said, “Amotekun men are trying but they don’t have sophisticated weapons like Army and Police. Our people are living in fear especially along Owo-Ifon road.”
Kumuyi urged IGP and Aiyedatiwa “let them assess security situation in Ondo state six, seven months ago and compare it with last three months, Ondo state is coming back under herders’ attacks.”
Some motorists in Akure also called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to advise police against incessant extortion of drivers and motorcyclists along major roads in the state capital in recent time.
PRESS STATEMENT
OSYN DEMANDS IMMEDIATE ACTION AGAINST INSECURITY IN ONDO STATE
The Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN) expresses deep concern over the escalating insecurity in Ondo State, with a particular focus on the alarming rise in kidnapping incidents in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area. This once serene town has become a hotspot for criminal activities, disrupting the lives and livelihoods of its residents. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families who have endured unimaginable suffering.
We recall the tragic event of November 26, 2020, when the late Olufon of Ifon, Oba Israel Adeusi, was brutally murdered by unknown gunmen while returning from a Council of Obas meeting in Akure. This heinous act not only left Ifon without its traditional ruler but also marked the beginning of a series of violent attacks and kidnappings. The once-thriving town is now plagued by fear and insecurity, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
The recent surge in kidnappings, including the abduction of farmers, travelers, and even a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, underscores the urgent need for action. Families are being torn apart, and the economic activities that once flourished in Ifon are now at a standstill. The incident involving the former local government chairman, Hon. Bola Adelegbe, who remains missing despite a ransom payment, highlights the gravity of the situation.
Adding to this distress, there have been disturbing reports of attacks on Amotekun operatives, the state’s security outfit. These attacks not only undermine the security framework but also embolden the criminals, leaving our communities even more vulnerable. The bravery and dedication of these operatives should be met with robust support and protection from the government.
OSYN Coordinator, Comr. Afe Ezekiel, stated, “We demand immediate action from the state and federal governments to address this crisis. The deployment of a joint task force comprising the Nigerian Police Force’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Amotekun Corps, and the Nigerian Army is essential. Additionally, investing in technological solutions such as surveillance drones will provide a modern approach to combating these crimes.”
We urge Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa and his administration to prioritize the safety and security of Ondo State. The lack of government intervention has left communities like Ifon vulnerable and desperate. The implementation of a special security committee dedicated to resolving this issue is crucial. The government must ensure the immediate release of all kidnapped individuals and take decisive steps to prevent future incidents.
OSYN Public Relations Officer, Christopher Olusa, added, “Failure to meet these demands will compel OSYN to mobilize our members and collaborate with other youth organizations for a sustained protest until the government takes necessary action. We cannot stand by while our people suffer.”
The distress and anxiety faced by the people of Ondo State, especially Ifon, cannot be overstated. They deserve to live without fear, to farm their lands, and to travel safely. We stand in solidarity with the victims and their families, offering our deepest sympathies and support. It is time for the government to act decisively and restore peace and security to Ondo State.
In conclusion, the Ondo State Youth Network demands immediate government intervention to combat the insecurity crisis across the state. Our calls for action are not just a plea for security but a demand for the fundamental right to live in peace. We will continue to advocate for the people of Ondo State until their safety is assured.
Signed,
Olusa Christopher
PRO, OSYN
